KEETCH BACKS YOUTH HOSTEL PLAN FOR CITY

5.24.29pm GMT Wed 3rd Aug 2005

Welsh Bicknor Youth Hostel

Hereford's MP, Paul Keetch, visited the Youth Hostel at Welsh Bicknor, near Goodrich, this week and backed plans by the Youth Hostel Association [YHA] for a hostel in Hereford City. Whilst no site has yet been determined, Mr Keetch thinks the plan would boost tourism to the City.

"The Youth Hostel Association is modernising and improving its facilities and is now a major player in British tourism", said Mr Keetch.

"Gone are the old hostels with many sites now offering five star en suite accommodation for singles, couples and families. Many hostels are also now located in historic buildings, and there are city hostels in London, Manchester and many other places.

"With successful hostels on the River Wye at Welsh Bicknor, and in Leominster and Kington, one in Hereford City would be a useful addition to the network. I would be happy to help the YHA identify a suitable site and look forward to welcoming more tourists to our beautiful city and countryside."